Michigan House Bill HR0230

Michigan 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/24/24
• Passed: 4/24/24

Caption

A resolution to urge the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity, the Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration, the United States Department of Labor - Occupational Safety and Health Administration, and all those responsible for the safety of Michigan’s workers to do everything in their power to decrease workplace injuries and deaths and make worksites safer for all hardworking Michiganders.

Impact

In 2022 alone, there were 5,486 reported workplace fatalities in the United States, including 139 in Michigan, indicating that a worker died approximately every 96 minutes due to occupational injuries. The resolution emphasizes that Michigan's workforce is vital for the state’s economic growth and that efforts must be made to address unsafe working conditions that lead to catastrophic incidents and long-term health issues. If enacted, it encourages the state and federal agencies to improve workplace health and safety standards and enforce regulations more stringently.

Summary

House Resolution 230 aims to urge multiple governmental agencies, including the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity as well as the U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration, to take decisive actions in reducing workplace injuries and fatalities. The resolution highlights the criticality of safe working environments, reiterating that both federal and state law guarantee workers the right to a safe workplace. Despite these laws, statistics reveal alarming rates of workplace-related injuries and deaths, emphasizing the need for heightened safety measures.

Contention

The resolution expresses a strong sentiment that every effort should be made to improve conditions in the workplace, which could result in potential controversies surrounding budget allocations for safety inspections and trainings. Some stakeholders might argue that increased regulations could impose burdens on businesses, whereas proponents might insist that safeguarding workers' rights should take precedence over profit margins. This tension between economic interests and worker safety could lead to significant discussions during legislative review.